BMW iX3: A Luxury Compact EV Crossover Review

BMW iX3 is a luxury crossover poised to revolutionize our approach to driving. With its powerful motor, excellent range, and fast charging, the iX3 delivers a smooth and refined experience that can win the heart of even the most skeptical drivers. It is also well-suited for long highway travels, and fast charging support allows for quick and convenient recharging on the go. 

iX3 is impressive in terms of performance and range and symbolizes style and sophistication. From its sleek and eye-catching aerodynamic design to its spacious and luxurious interior, this EV will turn heads wherever it goes. If you are in quest of a vehicle that provides the best of both domains – a luxurious and comfortable driving experience combined with the efficiency and sustainability of an electric powertrain – the iX3 is worth considering.

6 Facts about the BMW iX3

• iX3 is powered by a 286hp electric motor which provides swift acceleration.
• It can go up to 286 miles on a single charge, thanks to the high capacity 60kWh battery that BMW has graciously provided.
• BMW iX3 has three displays: a 12.3-inch instrument-cluster display, a 10.25-inch instrument-cluster display, and a heads-up display.
• This EV has a spacious interior with ample space for up to five passengers with sufficient cargo space to spare.
• It is available in multiple trims, but even the basic trim has features such as a panoramic sunroof and a premium sound system.
• The BMW iX3 can add 237 miles of range in just 30 minutes when charged using a high-power charger that provides a rate of 150 kW.

BMW iX3 EV Specs

BMW iX3 EV: Where to Buy

Production started in the last quarter of 2020. Still, the IX3 didn’t see an official release until 2021. The German automaker has manufactured this EV in China. Shockingly, BMW says it has no intention of launching this EV in the US market. However, experts claim that a limited range and sole rear-wheel drive could be the reason behind this controversial yet bold step.

Customers are now eyeing the 3^rd iX3 generation in the form of the 2023 BMW iX3. The EV is available for sale in Australia and Europe, and customers are pretty satisfied with the performance. At $85,095 starting MSRP, you’re paying the BMW tax with this EV.

US customers should not be disappointed, as BMW plans to launch the iX x50 in the US market. This EV will come with a more powerful engine, an extended range, and an updated design. The high price is the only downside to this EV, as it is priced at an eye-watering $84,100.

The History of the BMW iX3 EV: What To Know

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, better known by the acronym BMW, has a long and illustrious history as a leading luxury automotive manufacturer. The company produces different vehicles ranging from Sedans to SUVs and coupes to convertibles.

Throughout the decades, BMW developed a reputation for innovation and quality. Many of its vehicles have set the standard for performance and handling in their respective domains. The brand is known for producing the 3 Series, 5 Series, and 7 Series Sedans, representing the company’s face for sedan production. X5 and X7 series are popular among the SUV lineups.

BMW has recognized the “EV-olution” of the automotive industry, and they have started making a conscious push into the electric market. It is evident by the increased production of electric and hybrid models. The BMW i3 has the honor of being the first EV that BMW introduced back in 2013. It was followed in 2014 by the i8, a plug-in hybrid sports car.

BMW iX3 went for sale in 2021, and it is the latest addition to BMW’s electric vehicles.

BMW iX3 Versions: Each Edition

​​The BMW iX3 is available in two distinct configurations. Depending on your preferences, you can opt for the M Sport or the M Sport Pro. While the iX3 was initially available in one trim level, the refreshed model brought a few welcome variants for discerning buyers.

One of the main differences between the two models is the size of the wheels. The M Sport comes with 19″ wheels, while the M Sport Pro comes with 20″ wheels. Another difference is the range of the vehicles. The M Sport has a range of 284 to 285 miles, while the M Sport Pro has a range of 280 to 282 miles.

The price difference between the two is minor. BMW is asking roughly $5,000 extra for the M Sport Pro model. Both models offer various trim options, including Aluminium Rhombicle dark with highlight trim finisher Pearl Chrome and Aluminium fine cutting with highlight trim finisher Pearl Chrome. 

Since the M Sport Pro model does not offer increased performance, the minor differences in trim are not enough to sway most buyers. Instead of performance, the M Sport Pro offers more technology. If you want to be on the cutting edge, the M Sport Pro offers the best combination of tech, including a heads-up display, keyless go, acoustic glass, and a premium audio system.

BMW iX3 EV: Design and construction

The BMW iX3 is the company’s first fully electric vehicle, and it’s clear that they’re putting their best foot forward with this impressive model. At first glance, you can confuse the iX3 with any other BMW due to its signature grille up front. However, BMW sealed this grill shut since there’s no internal combustion engine there that needs cooling. This not only helps reduce drag and improve the car’s range but also bestows the EV with a sleek and modern look.

Another striking feature of the iX3 is its 20-inch wheels, which are unique to this model. These wheels are heavily sculpted and designed to smooth airflow along the side of the car, further improving its range. They may be a bit vulnerable to curbing, but they definitely add to the car’s sporty and stylish appearance.

In addition to the sealed grille and unique wheels, the BMW iX3 also has a few other design elements that set it apart as an electric vehicle. These include blue highlights on the rear bumper, grille, badges, sills, and a dimpled pattern on the front of the car. All of these design elements come together to create a masterpiece.

BMW iX3 EV: Performance

A powerful 210kW electric motor near the rear axle drives BMW iX3. It is a single-motor drivetrain compared to dual-motor drivetrains on its competitors.

An 80 kWh lithium-ion battery provides an excellent 285-mile range. The EV goes from 0-60mph in only 6.8 seconds. So, this EV has something in store for people who like the adrenaline rush. The torque is instant, and the car accelerates as soon as the foot starts pushing down on the pedal. 

The overall feel and performance of the iX3 are pretty similar to its ICE-powered counterpart, the X3. The main difference lies in its electric powertrain and quiet drive, as the electric motor makes no noise. 

The BMW iX3 has a smooth, polished performance that will mpress drivers and passengers. Despite having a single motor, the iX3’s configuration is lighter and does not feel underpowered. Indeed, the BMW Iconic Sounds Electric program, which allows it to play simulated sounds through the speakers, enables the iX3 to provide a one-of-a-kind driving experience. 

Additionally, this application provides a variety of unique noises, the volume of which can be modified based on user desire and throttle position. So, in addition to outstanding performance, the iX3 has a little personality to make your driving experience even more fun.

BMW iX3 EV: Range and Recharging

BMW has given the iX3 a potent 80 kWh battery pack that offers it a range of up to 285 miles. This gives it an edge over its main rivals, such as the Audi e-Tron and Mercedes-Benz EQS. However, it is still slightly lower than the Jaguar I-Pace. The iX3’s actual range will vary depending upon the driving conditions, road situation, and whether you are driving it in the city or highway.

One of the amazing things about the iX3 is that it works with practically any kind of power outlet or charging station, even lightning-fast 150 kW chargers. It is tremendously convenient to add up to 60 miles of range using one of these chargers in just 10 minutes. Just have a short stay at any fast-charging station, have a snack, and there you go; now you have another 120-180 miles of charging on your EV.

If you don’t have a high-power charger, you can still recharge the iX3 using a less powerful outlet, such as a home wall-box charger or a standard three-pin plug. In this case, getting a full charge will take a bit longer. Additionally, BMW estimates it will take around 12 hours to charge the iX3 from empty.

While electricity prices have risen in recent years, they are still much lower than the cost of petrol or diesel, so the iX3 will still be much cheaper to run than a conventional X3.

One of the key features of the BMW iX3 is its brake regeneration system, which allows the electric motor to act as an extra brake and feed energy back to the batteries when the car slows down. This happens automatically when you press the brake pedal. The single-pedal driving mode helps decelerate the car by just taking your foot off the accelerator. This can be a very relaxing way to drive in urban traffic. Additionally, it helps to extend the iX3’s range by recapturing energy that would otherwise be lost.

BMW iX3 EV: Interior

There isn’t much difference between the X3 and iX3 regarding the interior. In fact, if it weren’t for those blue accents, you might not even know you were in an electric vehicle. The X3’s interior is already luxurious, and the iX3 follows suit. It’s well-made and has a lot of soft, plush materials in all the right places. The only downside is a few spots with hard, scratchy plastic, like around the starter button.

Regarding usability, the iX3 is just as good as the X3. It has a straightforward dashboard with proper buttons and knobs for the air conditioning, unlike some touch-sensitive pads in other EVs like the Audi E-Tron. The driving position is also excellent.

The fit and finish of this car are top-notch, according to experts. Everything about the iX3’s interior screams quality, from the high proportion of leatherette-lined and soft-touch surfaces to the overall atmosphere of the cabin. The cabin feels almost like a bank vault in terms of how sturdy and well-made it is. Additionally, which is always a plus, the infotainment and driver displays are incredibly clear.

Additionally, some people have expressed concern that the iX3 is made in China. But trust the experts when they say this vehicle feels just as premium as any other BMW. Reviews have revealed that the M leather steering provides a luxurious and firm grip. And all the switchgear has a nice, solid feel to it. Plus, the layout of all the buttons and switchgear is exceptionally organized, which leaves no annoying touch-capacitive controls to deal with. All in all, the iX3’s interior is one of the best in its class.

BMW iX3 EV: Technology

BMW has equipped this EV with state-of-the-art technological features. The EV comes with intelligent driver assistance systems, which are quite easy to control and maneuver using voice commands. This makes the journey safe and fun at the same time. You can also control the car using the BMW app.

There are two separate screens, one behind the steering wheel and another in the center. The center screen measures 12.3″ diagonally. It offers a sharp display and is compatible with touch controls. 

The BMW iX3 has a cutting-edge steering and lane control aid that enables Level 2 autonomous driving on motorways and highways. This technology combines adaptive cruise control and lane-centering capabilities to improve the safety and convenience of your driving experience. It is quite a user-friendly system of its kind and depicts the efforts that BMW has made on this EV.

In addition to its practical benefits, the steering and lane control assistance also adds a touch of cool to your driving experience with its Tesla-style real-time display in the instrument cluster. This display shows the lanes and vehicles around you, allowing you to stay alert and make smart driving decisions. The sound system comprises 16 speakers powered by a Harman Kardon audio system.

The Public Response

Since its release, buyers and critics have praised the BMW iX3 for its performance, range, and elegance. The iX3 has earned strong sales and high demand, making it a successful model for BMW. Moreover, various companies and organizations have recognized the iX3 as a reliable fleet vehicle, showing its versatility and suitability for different driving needs. 

Additionally, BMW has plans to expand its electric car lineup, including new models like the BMW i4 as a fully-electric competitor to the Tesla Model 3. The BMW iX is also seeing success in the US and European markets. The success of the iX3 has demonstrated BMW’s commitment to developing and offering a range of electric vehicles for consumers.